A rapid rise in sea levels in Southwest Pacific Ocean has ocurred, according to a new study, and researchers say human-made climate change is likely the cause for significant rises in the 20th century. Scientists from the University of Queensland in Australia, partnered with other British universities, measured sea levels going back 6,000 years and spotted significant increases in the 19th and 20th centuries. Of note is that a major spike in the late 20th century, starting around 1990, is likely linked to human-created climate change, researchers said.

"The 1990s peak is most likely indicative of human-induced climate change," said Patrick Moss, a scientist from the University of Queensland.